Social Support: characteristics and psychological effects of having it

Throughout all of our lives and with effect in practically all of our bubbles and environments, the Social relationships play such a fundamental role that it often goes unnoticed in our everyday life

The ability to connect with other people, share our joys and worries, and receive support When we need it most, it is an invaluable treasure that, on many occasions, we underestimate or do not realize. of the.

When we talk about social support, we are not just referring to maintaining a circle of close friends or family. It goes beyond that, encompassing a network of relationships that can vary in form and function. From the emotional support a friend provides in times of sadness to the instrumental support a neighbor can offer in times of need, Each type of social support contributes to our sense of belonging and well-being.

And perceived social support is one of the protective factors of mental health and well-being most defended by professionals. In this article, we will define what social support is and in what ways it benefits us to surround ourselves and nourish ourselves with different supports and why this variable is so important for our protection and welfare.

What is social support?

Social support is a dimension that has become an integral part of our understanding of how human relationships affect our health and emotional well-being. But what exactly does it mean? At its core, social support refers to the various forms of assistance, understanding and support that a person receives from their network of social relationships, whether from friends, family, colleagues or community members. Although it can take many forms, social support shares a common denominator: the idea that we are not alone in this journey called life.

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The importance of social support

To understand the importance of social support, it is essential to recognize that human beings are inherently social creatures. From the moment we are born, we seek connections with others. These connections are essential for our development and well-being. A baby who receives love and attention from his parents will grow up more secure and emotionally balanced than one who faces indifference or abandonment. Likewise, as we move through life, our relationships and the support they provide play a crucial role in the construction of our identity and in how we face the challenges that confront us. present.

Various forms of social support

Social support is not a monolithic concept, but rather a mosaic of diverse supports that span various aspects of life. These are generally divided into four main categories:

• Emotional Support: This form of support involves listening, understanding and expressing empathy towards a person's feelings and emotions. It can include words of encouragement, comfort, and emotional support in times of difficulty.
• Instrumental support: Instrumental support refers to practical assistance provided in specific situations. This could include financial help, housework, childcare, or support on specific projects.
• Information support: In an increasingly connected world, information support has become essential. It involves providing information, guidance or advice in situations where knowledge is valuable.
• Company support: The presence of others can have a calming and comforting effect. The simple act of being with someone in times of loneliness or distress can be a powerful form of social support.

Benefits of social support

Social support is more than a network of contacts; It is a source of strength and an invaluable resource for mental and emotional health. As we delve deeper into the topic, we find a series of benefits that social support brings to people's lives.

1. Reduction of stress and anxiety

In a world that often feels overwhelming, social support acts as a buffer against stress and anxiety. Sharing worries and fears with friends or loved ones can relieve emotional tension and provide valuable perspectives. The simple presence of a friend during difficult times can be enough to reduce anxiety and provide comfort.

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2. Improved mental health

Strong, positive social relationships are closely related to mental health. People who experience social support tend to report higher life satisfaction and a lower incidence of mental health problems, such as depression. The sense of belonging and emotional security provided by social support contribute significantly to psychological well-being.

3. Increased self-esteem and self-confidence

Social support can have a transformative impact on our perception of ourselves. When we receive support and encouragement from others, our self-esteem tends to strengthen. Feeling valued and appreciated by those around us increases our self-confidence and gives us the drive to face challenges with a positive attitude.

4. Resilience in the face of adversity

In life, we all face difficult times. Social support can be a lifeline in the midst of adversity. People with strong support networks are often more resilient in the face of obstacles and trauma. Knowing that they are not alone in their struggle gives them the strength to recover and overcome challenges.

5. Increased satisfaction with life

Social relationships enrich our lives in many ways. Social support contributes to a greater sense of satisfaction with life in general. Feeling connected and supported by others adds immense value to our existence, which can translate into a sense of overall well-being.

6. Promoting empathy and compassion

Social support is not a one-way street. Through our relationships, we learn to be empathetic and compassionate toward others.. The experience of receiving and providing support connects us on an emotional level with the experiences of others and allows us to grow as human beings.

Psychological effects of lack of social support

If social support can be a beacon of hope in difficult times, the lack of it can plunge people into a much darker emotional reality. Loneliness and social isolation can have significant psychological effects, and it is essential to understand the consequences of a lack of social support.

1. Loneliness and emotional isolation

Loneliness It's more than just being alone. It is a deep and often painful feeling of disconnection. When we lack strong, supportive relationships, we can feel emotionally isolated, even in a crowd. This emotional isolation can lead to a variety of mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety.

2. chronic stress

Lack of social support can increase feelings of stress in everyday life. When we don't have someone to lean on, the emotional burden and challenges can seem overwhelming. Chronic stress can negatively affect physical and mental health, increasing the risk of diseases such as cardiovascular disease.

3. Vulnerability to mental health problems

Loneliness and lack of social support are known risk factors for a number of mental health problems. The depression, anxiety and low self-esteem are more common in people who feel isolated. The lack of a support system can make it more difficult to face and overcome these problems.

4. Cognitive impairment

Lack of social interaction and isolation can contribute to cognitive decline over time. The human mind needs stimulation and challenges to stay agile and healthy.. Lack of social interaction can limit these opportunities and negatively impact cognitive function.

5. Lack of motivation and sense of purpose

Social support not only influences mental health, but also impacts our motivation and sense of purpose. When we feel alone and disconnected, it's harder to find reasons to move forward and set meaningful goals in life.

How to strengthen your social support

While we have discussed the positive impacts of social support and the negative effects of a lack of it, it is important to note that we can take active steps to strengthen our support networks. In conclusion, below we will explore some key strategies for cultivating and maintaining meaningful relationships:

1. Open and honest communication

The foundation of any solid relationship is communication. Encourage openness and honesty in your interactions with friends and loved ones. Talking about your emotions, thoughts, and needs can strengthen emotional bonds.

2. Active listening

Active listening is equally important. Pay attention to what others have to say and show genuine interest in their experiences and feelings. This shows empathy and reinforces the emotional connection.

3. keep in touch

Life can be hectic, but it's essential to stay in touch with friends and loved ones. Schedule regular meetings, whether in person or through video calls, to strengthen ties.

4. Participate in social activities

Join groups, clubs or activities that interest you. This gives you the opportunity to meet new people with similar interests, which can lead to meaningful friendships.

5. Provide support to others

Reciprocity is key in social support. Offering your support to friends and loved ones when they need it strengthens relationships and creates an environment of trust.

6. Set healthy boundaries

Make sure you set healthy boundaries in your relationships. This It involves knowing when to say "no" and protect your own emotional well-being.

7. Seek professional help if necessary

If you feel that a lack of social support has had a significant impact on your mental health, consider seeking help from a therapist or counselor. They can provide you with guidance and strategies to address your emotional challenges.